TJ Olsen

TJ Olsen has spent his career bringing artists and audiences together through live music, creative strategy, and community-focused spaces. With a passion for independent music and a knack for problem-solving, he’s built a reputation as a trusted talent buyer, artist consultant, and business strategist in New York’s music and hospitality scenes.

As the founder of TJO Presents, Olsen has worked with a diverse roster of national and international artists, providing booking, marketing, and development support. His freelance work as a business strategist includes crafting marketing plans, e-commerce solutions, and administrative systems tailored to creative ventures. His commitment to inclusivity also drives his work as an accessibility consultant, helping venues design more inclusive events and spaces as well as advising start ups and brands on ensuring their web presences are both accessible and usable.

In 2018, Olsen and two partners became managing partners of Project Parlor, a beloved Bed-Stuy bar and event space known for its intimate performances and welcoming atmosphere. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Olsen and his team acquired a corner tavern in Ridgewood, Queens, transforming it into Bar Freda. As general manager for 2.5 years and its current talent buyer, he’s played a key role in establishing Bar Freda as a go-to venue for emerging and established acts.

Olsen’s background also includes time as the reviews and later music editor at Beyond Race Magazine, marketing consultant, and account manager, roles that sharpened his skills in creative storytelling and business strategy. His work continues to bridge the gaps between artists, venues, and audiences, creating opportunities for growth and collaboration.

A graduate of Seton Hall University with a BA in Journalism and Public Relations and a minor in International Relations, Olsen blends communication and business expertise with his passion for music. In 2023, he was selected to join the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the **North American Independent Venue Association (NIVA, where he helps shape industry-wide initiatives.

Whether he’s booking a show, crafting a marketing plan, or consulting on accessibility, Olsen’s work reflects his commitment to supporting creative communities and making live music more inclusive.